The Toronto Raptors secured their 2026 draft class on Monday by signing second-round selection Jaden Bradley to a multi-year NBA contract. In a related roster move, the team also converted guard Malachi Smith to a two-way deal. These moves come as the Raptors look ahead.
Financial details for both contracts were not released, following standard team policy. Bradley, a six-foot-three, 205-pound guard, was the 50th overall pick in this year's draft. His signing locks in a promising young player who excelled at the collegiate level.
Bradley put together a standout senior season for the Arizona Wildcats. He was named the Big 12 Player of the Year after averaging 13.3 points, 4.4 assists, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game across 39 contests. He logged 30.6 minutes per night, proving his durability and importance to the team's success.
His impact went beyond individual stats. Bradley also earned spots on the All-Big 12 First Team and the conference's All-Defensive Team. His two-way play was a major factor in Arizona's run to the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament last season. The Raptors are banking on that winning pedigree and defensive intensity translating to the professional level.
The other transaction involved Malachi Smith, who initially joined the Raptors as a free agent back on August 17. His contract has now been changed to a two-way deal. This allows the six-foot-four shooting guard to split his time between the NBA club and its G League affiliate, providing roster flexibility.
Smith's specific statistical averages from his previous season were not fully detailed in the announcement. The two-way contract gives him a valuable opportunity to develop his game further while being available for NBA duty when needed. It's a common path for young players aiming to secure a permanent spot.
These roster tweaks occur as the team prepares for its next chapter.
Adding young, competitive players is always part of the long-term plan in the NBA.
With Bradley officially under contract and Smith on his two-way deal, the Raptors' backcourt depth chart gains more definition. The front office has acted to solidify the edges of its roster ahead of training camp and preseason activities. These are the kinds of procedural moves that often fly under the radar but are essential for building a complete team.
Fans will get their first look at Bradley in a Raptors uniform during the upcoming preseason slate. His journey from a second-round pick to a signed player is just beginning. The real test will be how his college success, particularly his steals and playmaking, adjusts to the speed and physicality of the NBA. For now, the Raptors have secured a key part of their draft haul.
